Alfred Lee (Al) Johnson, 68, of Salem, Va., passed away on Monday, June 15, 2009, in the company of his loved ones after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He is preceded in death by his father, Oliver Joseph Johnson; and his stepfather, Marcus "Chippy" Bird. He is survived by his mother, Helen Fisher Bird; his loving wife of 27 years, Robyn Ann Johnson; his daughters, Monica Johnson Nakagawa and her husband, Patrick, and Vanessa Johnson Worth and her husband, Scott; one beautiful granddaughter, Ripley Vanessa Nakagawa; and a special godson, Logan Janney.
Al was born on July 21, 1940, in Roanoke, Va. He was a graduate of Jefferson High School in Roanoke, Va., and continued his education at Catawba College in Salisbury, N.C., with a full scholarship due to his exemplary athletic abilities. At Catawba, he earned eight varsity letters in both basketball and track, was basketball team captain, and was a two-time All-North State Conference champion. In addition to these accolades, he continues to hold the record for most points scored (47) in a Virginia High School State tournament game. In 1986, he was inducted into the Catawba College Sports Hall of Fame for his outstanding achievements in both basketball and track. At Catawba, he received a bachelor of arts in education. He began his teaching career at Franklin County High School in Rocky Mount, Va., in 1964 where his continued love of athletics led him to become Head Coach of their varsity basketball team. After eight years and many championship teams, he was recruited in 1972 to teach at Northside High School in Roanoke, Va., where he continued his coaching career in both basketball and golf. At Northside, he led both teams to many regional and state championships during his eight-year tenure. Throughout his 32 years as an educator and coach, he was well-loved and respected by students, players, and colleagues alike. In his spare time from teaching and coaching, Al enjoyed playing Fast-Pitch softball and golf. Just as he excelled in his other team sports, Al was recognized as a champion Fast-Pitch softball pitcher, famous for pitching no-hitters and so agile and quick at catching bunts that he earned the nickname "Al the Cat." Al retired from teaching in 1995 and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and even discovered a new passion in carpentry and home remodeling, at which he also excelled.
Al was a kind, gentle, fun-loving man who always saw the best in everyone and every situation. Throughout his struggle with cancer, he remained positive and upbeat, cracking jokes to lighten the mood to the very end. He has touched so many lives with his easy smiles and loving kindness, and it is certain he will be missed forever. Goodnight, sweet prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
The family would like to thank Dr. William Fintel, his staff, and all of the staff on 6 West at Lewis-Gale Hospital.
A period of visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2009, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A memorial service will be held later that evening at 7 p.m. Afterwich, an additional period of visitation will follow until 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Catawba Chiefs Club, Catawba College at 2300 West Innes Street in Salisbury, N.C. 28144 or given through their website at catawba.edu. Online condolences to the family may be made at johnmoakey.com. The Johnson family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Va., 540-389-5441.

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